Can Everton Loan Harm Landon Donovan?

Multiple sources are claiming that LA Galaxy forward Landon Donovan is being pursued by Premier League club Everton. General discussion focuses on how the move would benefit both him and Everton, and help to prepare him for next summer's World Cup. If any American soccer player today is capable of being plugged into a British team and play well, it's Donovan. But be warned: the benefits may not outweigh possible negative repurcussions. 

In order for this trade to be beneficial, Donovan would need not only to go over on loan, but also to receive ample playing time, play well and stay healthy. Risk of injury is a factor that you cannot really nullify, but the value of playing abroad is that the player gains greater exposure to different styles of play and at a higher level than what he would play against in Major League Soccer (MLS).
 
However, if Landon were loaned and he did not see much playing time, the deal would actually be counterproductive. Instead of bringing him up to peak form, it could actually allow his abilities to slide. Moreover, if he performs poorly (due to inexperience in that league, team chemistry or jitters for instance) the result could actually lower his morale, negatively impacting on his performance when it counts in South Africa.
 
If a deal was made, this would not be Donovan's first experience abroad. Between 2001-05, Donovan was under contract with Bayern Leverkusen. During that time he was loaned to San Jose where he played 2001-04. In 2005, Donovan finally played for Leverkusen, but only started twice and didn't score at all. In spring 2009 he played six games while on loan to Munich Bayern and again failed to score.
 
Donovan's potential however is significant. Despite shortcomings in Germany, Donovan has excelled in international competition with the US National Team (USNT). Donovan has surpassed all US strikers in goals scored (42) in his 120 appearances. In addition to his physical accomplishments, Donovan has showed leadership during the MLS season this year, handling differences with Galaxy teammate David Beckham, and leading his team to the MLS finals.     
 
If the deal is struck to send Donovan to Everton (or anywhere else) on loan, his experience may give the USNT an edge in South Africa that they otherwise would not have, but the risks should also be consideration.